Credits: MV Ballard
Klaveness Combination Carriers (“KCC”) proudly announces the successful integration of Silverstream Technologies’ revolutionary air lubrication system, the Silverstream® System, aboard MV Ballard. This marks a significant milestone not only for MV Ballard but for the entire dry bulk and tanker industry.
The Silverstream® System deploys a network of air release units (ARUs) strategically positioned along the vessel’s flat underside. These units are powered by oil-free compressors, generating pressurized air that forms a seamless blanket of microbubbles across the hull’s surface. This ingenious innovation drastically reduces the friction between the vessel and the water, resulting in a notable drop in fuel consumption and subsequent CO2 emissions.
MV Ballard’s transformation doesn’t stop there. Alongside the Silverstream® System, several other energy-saving technologies have been integrated:
- WE Tech Shaft Generator: This innovation harnesses rotational energy from the propeller shaft to supply power to the Silverstream system and other crucial on-board systems. By utilizing the main engine for electricity generation, efficiency is significantly improved compared to auxiliary engines.
- Becker Mewis Duct: A custom-designed hull appendage that optimizes propeller inflow hydrodynamics, further enhancing overall performance.
- Welding Seam Fairing: This application smoothens welding seams, effectively reducing hull friction and optimizing vessel operation.
- Silicon Paint: A layer of friction-resistant anti-fouling paint is applied to enhance hull performance, contributing to the vessel’s overall efficiency.
- Kongsberg Ship Performance System: This system provides real-time, high-frequency sensor data to onshore locations, ensuring optimal performance monitoring.
- Starlink Internet System: This addition ensures high-speed, low-latency, and high-capacity internet connectivity, facilitating seamless digital collaboration and data exchange between the ship and shore.
CEO Engebret Dahm emphasized, “The implementation of these efficiency improvements illustrates our commitment to take a front-runner position in delivering cost-effective decarbonization to our customers.” He affirmed KCC’s dedication to adopting a wide array of energy and operational efficiency technologies across their existing fleet, with plans for the incorporation of zero-emission fuels in upcoming newbuilds.
Post sea trials, MV Ballard resumes service with continuous monitoring of the new installations. With all technologies performing as anticipated, an impressive 15% improvement in energy efficiency is expected. Following MV Ballard’s trailblazing example, CLEANBU MV Baru is slated for a Silverstream® System retrofit in November 2023.
